Written by Tanisha Cardozo
July 31, Nagpur: Divya Deshmukh, India’s rising chess sensation, returned to her hometown of Nagpur to a grand reception after her stunning victory at the Women’s Chess World Cup in Batumi, Georgia.
At just 19 years old, Divya made history by becoming the first Indian to win the prestigious title, defeating veteran Koneru Humpy in a high-stakes tie-breaker after their classical games ended in a draw.
“I am feeling very happy that so many people have come to felicitate me, and chess is getting recognition,” she said, visibly moved by the overwhelming support.
Originally aiming only to secure a Grandmaster norm, Divya ended the tournament with much more: the World Cup trophy, the Grandmaster title, and a confirmed spot in the FIDE Candidates 2025, the final step toward challenging for the World Championship.
Divya’s victory was as emotional as it was historic. She paid tribute to her late coach Rahul Joshi, who passed away in 2020:
“He always wanted me to become the Grandmaster. This is for him.”
She also credited her parents, sister Arya, extended family, and coach GM Abhijit Kunte, whom she called her “lucky charm.”
Looking ahead, Divya plans to rest through August and then prepare for her next major challenge — the FIDE Grand Swiss in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from September 2–16.
Her victory signals a new era for Indian women in chess, proving that passion, preparation, and perseverance can defy even the steepest odds.
Discover more from Allycaral
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
